​About a month ago, I went to see The Rembrandt at Steppenwolf Theatre. There’s a lot about the play to talk about, but one topic in particular has haunted me. When speaking about grieving, one character announced that the way to get through it is to learn something new.

This stuck with me.

I think it can be applied to more situations beyond grief, too. It occurred to me that learning something new is a way to cope with any setback life throws at you. Because, learning something new not only distracts your mind, it enhances your life.

So, as we ready ourselves for the New Year, I plan to learn new things. As many new things as I can. For myself, and my business.

It’s basic advice, yet many continue to dream of a book with their name on it without putting pen to page or fingers to keys.

Here’s the thing about writing, it takes discipline. Yes, some have more talent than others. Yes, there is an element of luck—as there is in any profession—but the best way to begin tallying up writing successes is to write. Daily.

Not sure where to start? Here are three ways to start a daily writing habit:

Get Outside. I know, this seems like the opposite of sitting down and getting your work done, but for me, clearing my mind before getting to work is essential. A morning walk is refreshing and prepares me for the day of work ahead. I don’t wander or stop for coffee. I simply get out, get some air, and get to work.

Have a Place to Write. This is something I resisted for years. What did it matter if I wrote on the couch or in a coffee shop? But now I can attest that having a workspace has upped my output. Don’t get me wrong, I still work on a laptop in my local coffee shop on occasion, but when I’m home, I’m in my office. It’s where I go to work. When I’m seated at my green desk my body knows it’s time to focus on the task at hand.

You Need a Goal. Motivation comes in many different forms. Some writers I know have daily word counts while others have monthly income goals. Find what motivates you and go for it. Make a plan to tackle your goals. Before you know it, you will have created a writing habit.